Cycling Accident Claims

This week marks National Bike Week 2019, a sport enjoyed by enthusiasts and amateurs alike. Unfortunately, cycling on our roads has become a dangerous sport. Even though many cycling accidents remain unreported, cyclists are still statistically more likely to be killed or seriously injured than any other road user.

Facts about cycling accidents

• Five people die every day on the roads in Great Britain and many more are seriously injured. These statistics have remained broadly constant for several years.
• Compared with other road users, cyclists are the most vulnerable. Not only are they more exposed on the road, but the safety of even the most experienced of cyclists is dependent upon the skills and awareness of other drivers.
• According to ROSPA,  in 2016, 18,477 cyclists reported being injured in accidents on the road.
• Of these, 3,499 were killed or seriously injured. Not surprisingly, the severity of injuries suffered by cyclists increases with the speed limit.
• Also, statistics show that a remarkably high number of cyclist deaths occur on rural roads (i.e. almost half of all deaths).

Common types of accident

Some of the most common cycling accidents caused by other road users include:-

• A motorist emerges into the path of a cyclist
• A motorist turns across the path of a cyclist
• A cyclist turns right from a major road and from a minor road
• Drivers or passengers open vehicle doors in front of an oncoming cyclist
• Roundabouts are also particularly dangerous junctions for cyclists

If you are involved in an accident, what should you do?

• Get out of the road – If possible, move to somewhere safe where you can seek help or medical attention.
• Call the police – it is important to get a record of what happened.
• Get witness details – ask for contact details of any bystanders or other road users who may have witnessed the accident.
• Take photos – take pictures of the scene of the accident, the other vehicle, the damage to your bike and of your injuries.
• Seek medical assistance from your own GP or local A&E department
• Write down exactly what happened – including the date and location of the accident, registration plate numbers and all the facts you can remember.

Can I make a claim following my cycling accident?

Following an accident, cyclists can sustain serious injuries and suffer long term physical and financial hardship. Bikes and bike equipment are expensive to repair and replace.

If the accident is partly or wholly the fault of another person you could be entitled to compensation for your injuries, reimbursement of medical bills and rehabilitation costs, repair costs or replacement value for your bike or other property, loss of earnings and any additional travel costs if your bike is damaged and you can’t use it for your usual commute.

If you have suffered from a cycling injury that wasn’t your fault, no matter how minor – let us help. Get in touch with our expert team today.